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Keep Your Stuff Safe: Self Storage Security Features

When renting a storage unit to house all of your extra belongings, security and safety are definitely primary concerns. While you’re likely not storing the Hope Diamond in your unit, you still want to make sure all of your possessions are safe and protected. Here are a few facility security features to look for when choosing the storage unit that’s right for you.

1. Security Cameras

Many modern facilities are equipped with security and surveillance cameras that monitor the premises around the clock. These cameras are a great security feature for renters to look for when selecting a facility. They not only act as an extra set of eyes, but also are a great help in identifying perpetrators in case of a break in or security issue. Additionally, many burglars will be deterred if they spot a surveillance system. So, security cameras can do more than just identify thieves… they can stop them!

2. PIN Entry

Most facilities are surrounded by perimeter fencing in order to dissuade anyone who isn’t a tenant or employee from entering. However, some units take security one step further with PIN entry systems. These access systems require anyone entering the facility to have a special PIN number, remote or key card, which prevents unwanted visitors from entering the complex. In addition to keeping out trouble, these systems also give the facility manager a detailed record of who’s entering and leaving the complex at any given time. This information proves to be extremely helpful in case of a break in or problem.

3. Door Alarms

Obviously, the security of the items in your individual unit is your primary concern. What if an existing renter wants to steal your possessions? They’d have no trouble entering the facility and breaking into your personal unit. To reassure tenants, some facilities have begun introducing individual door alarms on each storage unit. These alarms sound if an unauthorized user has entered the unit, or if the alarm has been tampered with. Additionally, some of these alarms are programmed to automatically call the police in the event of a disruption, so that they can arrive quickly and catch the perpetrator.

4. Attentive Managers

While it’s not necessarily a high-tech security feature, you want to make sure that the manager of your facility is alert and attentive. A watchful and aware manager is one of the best assets you can have for protecting your unit. When choosing a facility, take some time to sit down with the manager of the complex and ask a few questions about the security features of the complex. Also, make sure to find out how often they do complete walkthroughs of the whole facility to check for any potential security threats or issues. Even if you aren’t necessarily concerned about a break in, it’s nice to know that you have an observant and conscientious manager that will call and let you know if you forgot to lock your unit.

The security and safety of your possessions is understandably a primary concern of most storage unit tenants. Keep this list of potential security features handy, so that you can find a unit that best addresses your needs and concerns!

Kat Boogaard is a Midwest-based freelance writer and blogger who loves lending her voice to a variety of publications and organizations. When she manages to escape from behind her computer screen, she enjoys reading, babying her rescued terrier mutt and obsessively organizing her entire home.

About Kat Boogaard

Kat Boogaard is a Midwest-based freelance writer and blogger who loves lending her voice to a variety of publications and organizations. When she manages to escape from behind her computer screen, she enjoys reading, babying her rescued terrier mutt and obsessively organizing her entire home.